Sustainability Integration Advisory Board
Notes by Benjamin Wiens
Tech issues delayed the start of the meeting. Staff shared updates on Cheney Reservoir and the drought stage, cooling centers, and transit. The board prioritized $40,000 in funding toward refrigerators in public schools for food waste and air sensors.
Notes by Maleah Evans
The Sustainability Integration Board floated three future projects. One will streamline food delivery from grocery stores and restaurants to food banks and pantries. The other provides seed rebates to encourage sustainable lawn care. The third provides air quality sensors to Wichitans.
Notes by Susan Miner
Public notice of cancellations is critical! The April 23 Sustainability Board meeting was canceled but not posted online or shared with the library. A Documenter and a new board member showed up, discovering it was cancelled due to unfilled seats—8 of 14 groups haven’t filled board appointments.
Notes by Bill Hoag
The Sustainability Integration Board discussed the ongoing drought conditions, a climate action plan update, and Earth Day events. Chair Abdallah proposed a decentralized greywater system, which raised regulatory concerns and the definitions between grey and black water.
Notes by Judy Winters
Updates were presented on air quality monitoring, water rebates, and transit funding changes, while the chair discussed decentralized wastewater treatment research. The board prioritized water and waste management for 2025 and supported a youth-led sustainable fashion event.
Notes by Patrick Greene
The Board discussed updates on sustainability initiatives, including proposed subcommittees on land, air, water, & education, and heard reports on projects related to transit, parks, & stormwater management. A presentation from the HJEC highlighted $10 million in federal funding.
Notes by Randi Thimesch
Updates on Wichita's air quality, drought status, and sustainability initiatives, including the Climate Action Plan were presented. The board also discussed progress on the Healthy Corner Store Initiative which can bring healthy foods to current food deserts.
Notes by Ayshia McCray
The board meeting covered updates on sustainability, water conservation, and growth challenges in the area. Topics included drought response measures, greywater reuse, the impact of growth on water resources, and the potential for decentralized water systems to enhance resilience.
Notes by Debbie Haslam
The board discussed updates on various projects, including the climate action plan and survey, water conservation, and energy efficiency improvements. The board approved applying for a $3 million EPA grant and answered concerned questions from the public.